Select Page

Social Services

Do you need someone to talk to?
Book by PhoneBook by Email

Meet with Our Social Worker

 

The Racine Public Library’s social worker can connect you to resources related to housing, legal help, employment, education, crisis support, sexual assault, domestic violence, mental health, addiction, youth, applying for benefits and anything else you might need. All of these services are available to the public for free.

=

Needs assessments

=

Resource referrals

=

Advice

=

Simple translation

=

A friendly person to talk to

Sensory Space

Our sensory room is a private, quiet self-care room full of stim toys and sensory installations like bubble tanks, scent diffusers, tactile wall toys, sensory lights, and more. Also includes a privacy screen and chair for nursing parents. Now available for booking.

 

Who can use the sensory space?

Anyone! The sensory installations have proven benefits for autistic people; people with PTSD, ADHD, dementia and other neurodivergences; children; and anyone experiencing stress or overwhelm.

Why social work?

 

For several years, we have observed a shift in the needs of community members as requests for services around homelessness, addiction, mental illness, domestic violence and other issues increased.

 

We piloted our social services in late 2019. The need for social workers’ presence in the library was evident from the volume of requests for referrals and direct counseling. Since then, we’ve transitioned from hosting social work interns to bringing our own social worker on staff to better meet the community’s needs.

 

Learn more:

Resources to explore

 

While you’re waiting for your appointment with our social worker, here’s some resources that might help you get closer to the answers you’re looking for.

 

  • FindHelp.org — Enter your zip code to find nearby food pantries, financial assistance, medical care and other free or low-cost supports.
  • RacineCountyFamilyResources.com — A local guide to resources and information for kids and families, as well as agencies that support them.

Library Social Worker

A photo of a library staff member: Social Worker Ashley Cedeño, a Latinx woman with straight black hair past her shoulders.

Ashley Cedeño, MSW 

Speaks English & Spanish

(262) 321-9458

[email protected]

Make an Appointment

 

Location: In-person, Zoom or phone

 

Availability

  • Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Wednesdays 12:30 to 7:30 p.m.

How to book

Free Bus Passes

 

If you’re looking for discounted or low-cost bus passes, we’ve got a deal for you! We have free bus passes we can offer to patrons who need them, while supplies last.

In order to receive a bus pass, you will need to 1. drop in during the bus pass hours below 2. show proof of your reason for needing the bus pass (for example, a screenshot of a doctor’s appointment or an email to schedule a job interview).

 

Location: Second floor of the Racine Public Library

 

Open Bus Pass Hours (Drop-Ins Only) — August 2023

  • Mondays 1-2:30 p.m.
  • Wednesdays 4-5:30 p.m.
  • Thursdays 10-11:30 a.m.

Open Bus Pass Hours (Drop-Ins Only) — September 2023 Onward

  • Tuesdays 1-2:30 p.m.
  • Wednesdays 3-5:30 p.m.
  • Thursdays 10-11:30 a.m.

Pin It on Pinterest